Tuesday, October 04, 2011

12th century inscriptions found at Nevern Castle ‘that kept evil spirits at bay'

Rare pieces of inscribed slate unearthed during a dig at one of the nation’s oldest castles may provide valuable clues to life in medieval Wales, experts said yesterday.

Archaeologists involved in a recent excavation on the site of Nevern Castle in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park believe the markings, dating back more than 800 years, indicate some ritualistic methods of warding off evil.

The slates – complete with stars and other designs scratched on them – were found at the site’s 12th century cut-stone entranceway.

Lead archaeologist Dr Chris Caple said: “These inscribed slates are really interesting. They were found in only one place in the castle and were probably intended to ward off evil.”